Microsoft Surface Event: 10 Things to Expect From Tablet Debut

NEWS ANALYSIS: Microsoft will hold a special press event later this week that will showcase its new Surface tablet. A lot is known about the Surface already. But Microsoft will likely have a lot to say about how it can make the tablet a success.

Microsoft will hold a special press event on Oct. 25 that will center on the company’s Surface tablet. The date was chosen carefully. Microsoft will launch Windows 8 on Oct. 26. The Surface event will undoubtedly cover some of the features Microsoft has already unveiled in previous events discussing the tablet. The company will also likely want to focus much of its time on Windows 8.
However, in recent months, Microsoft has become more Apple-like in its announcements and events. The company likes to keep things secret, and at least so far, no major leaks have sprung related to its Surface event.
Believe it or not, Microsoft, a company that once leaked information and rumors like a sieve, has been able to keep quiet exactly what it has planned for the Oct. 25 event. But just the same there is plenty of speculation about what Microsoft will and will not discuss.
With the introduction looming in a few days it’s a good time to consider what Microsoft might discuss at its event. From the importance of tablets to reassuring investors, the event should provide a diverse mix of ideas and promises.

1. Tablet importance

First things first, Microsoft will focus much of its early remarks on the importance of tablets. The company has heretofore had no presence in the tablet market, earning criticism from those who say the space is integral to its future. At the Oct. 25 event, Microsoft will tell the world that tablets matter and it’ll show off the Surface to prove it.
2. The Surface’s finer points
Although the Surface has already been unveiled, expect Microsoft to spend some time discussing its finer points. The device’s 10.6-inch screen will be a major draw, as will its magnesium finish. Microsoft will also highlight the Touch Cover, which can act as a screen cover, stand and keyboard.
3. Windows RTThe Surface that will launch later this week will come with Windows RT, a version of Microsoft’s new operating system that runs on ARM-based chips. As a result it’s likely that Microsoft will focus much of its time discussing the value of Windows RT to users.
4. Windows 8 Pro
According to Microsoft, Windows 8 Pro will be coming to its tablet in the coming months. And since that operating system is what most consumers and enterprise users would want, expect the company to at least talk about its features and value. Windows 8 Pro is a must-have in the Surface tablet, and Microsoft and its customers know it.